I don't even trust my eyes because low lighting and dark brass can still conceal a chambered cartridge. I lock the action open and stick my finger in the chamber after visual clearance just to be sure.AF-Odin wrote:To add to the "oh no, not me," I have had the rules drilled in to me since I was old enough to recognize what a gun was (and I am almost ready for my Medicare card). Have always been conscious of muzzle direction and particularly when dealing with a semi-auto, will drop the mag and clear the chamber a number of times. However, once I forgot the FINAL step of visually on physically inspecting the chamber to ensure that it REALLY is empty. I was demonstrating how to clear a .22 rifle. Worked the action 3 or 4 times with nothing coming out, pointed at a wall away from all people pulled the trigger. BANG and a .22 hole in the wall. Upon inspection, the rifle had a broken extractor. Luckily the damage was fairly minor and I was able to repair it myself. The only thing really hurt was my ego. Now, I ALWAYS physically look in the chamber and I have procured a "test" sample of a bullet proof vest that is the only thing other than something I actually intend to shoot that the muzzle is pointed at when I pull the trigger.
I haven't found any loaded rounds with that last step yet, but it's something I do just to make sure I don't put any holes where they don't belong.